Common Mistakes – Part 3

"I just don't feel like eating after a workout." I can't tell you the number of times that I've heard this out of athletes who are trying to increase strength and performance. One of the most crucial things you can do immediately after working out is to consume a recovery meal or drink. Anything that is high in protein with some carbs will do. Whether you decide that Muscle Milk or chocolate milk … [Read more...]

Energy vs. Sport Drinks

Summer is here and with it the necessity to maintain adequate hydration. However, an article recently published in Athletic Business suggests energy drinks may be harmfully replacing water and sport drinks as a source of rehydration, particularly in young athletes. The reason proposed for this trend is thought to result from individuals looking to maximize energy and thus performance. Caffeine, … [Read more...]

Common Mistakes – Part 2

Another common mistake when it comes to working out is: Not taking enough rest time. Just because you've read about how your favorite athlete works out 6-7 days a week, twice a day, doesn't mean that you can do it. Not to knock you, but you also don't have a team doctor, team physical therapist, a training staff, several coaches planning all your workouts, and a world-class medical facility behind … [Read more...]

Common Mistakes – Part 1

I've decided to come up with a bit of a theme based on different things that I've heard over the years and just wanted to make you aware of as one of your friendly staffers! So without anymore introduction, the first common mistake is....not setting or sticking with goals. Remind yourself of why you started working out here. You've noticed changes, no doubt, and perhaps with those changes your … [Read more...]

Shhhh, it’s coming!

You can almost hear the pitter-patter of kids running out the door, screaming "SCHOOL'S OVER!"   Great. What do you do with them now that you have them for the ENTIRE summer?   Send them our way. We've got all sorts of summer programs to get your kids active, keep them healthy, and get them out of your hair for a little while. We'll get them running around, using up that … [Read more...]

It’s about that time…

Here's your biggest guilt trip of the day. Think back with me about 100 days ago. New Year's Day. Oh yeah. THAT resolution. Oops. Well, I got busy with Spring Break, and before that there were a bunch of sports games, but I really worked out hard in February. Ok, we'll forgive you, but it's time to get refocused and remember why you are doing all of these workouts. It's time to re-evaluate where … [Read more...]

Pat’s Run

As many of you have heard, we do have a big event coming up in Tempe. Pat's Run is expected to attract over 30,000 runners this year, and the HIT Center is going to be joining the parade of people. Whether you want to shoot for a PR (Jon), or are looking to have an enjoyable cruise in the back of the pack (me), there is all sorts of pacing for this race. 4.2 miles might seem like a ways to run, … [Read more...]

VO2 Max

We've recently put up some signs around the gym promoting the VO2 max testing that we're beginning to integrate, so I thought I would take a little more time to explain what it is, and how that might benefit you. Essentially, doing a VO2 max test tells us how efficiently your body is using oxygen. The higher the number is, the better. For example, if you are thinking about running Pat's Run (ahem, … [Read more...]

March Ahead

During the upcoming month of March, take some time to focus your exercise goals on benefiting not only yourself, but also others. Relay for Life events are peering ahead on the calendar. These are great ways to get involved with community events, supporting a good cause, and getting in a healthy dose of exercise as well. So for the upcoming month, begin to focus on how what you are doing can help … [Read more...]

Outdoor Cardio

If you've been sitting at home and can't drag yourself to the gym to do a workout, just get outside! There's so much to do with the longer days and warmer weather we are beginning to enjoy. Jump on a bike, go for a jog, grab a neighbor and go for a walk. The possibilities are endless and awesome. But don't forget to include strength training at the HIT Center. That's an important part of any … [Read more...]